RE: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Making a rapid prototyper

Thanks Fred,

Now that I know a little bit of what I'm looking for, I can hit the books
and try a few examples.

Alan KM6VV

> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "Alan Marconett" <KM6VV@...>
> wrote:
>
> > It occurs to me the StlWork might do some STL to Gcode conversions
> > like RP requires? Something to do with water line?
> >
>
> StlWork has a slicer function that outputs DXF contour "rings". I
> don't think it will do the internals. It should be OK for "solid"
> models, but would not be useful for models that have one or more
> hollow volumes.
>
> > I was considering generating Gcode initially for a simplified
> object by
> > drawing the "layers" in Vector CAD/CAM. RP would seem to be the
> INVERSE of
> > milling a mold cavity. But you'd have to stay on the same Z level
> before
> > moving on to the next one. Hmmm, real intellectual stuff...
> >
>
> Vector has a function that calculates a planar slice through a 3D
> surface model, based on the location of the coordinate axis. You
> can write a Vector MTB script that will
>
> 1)Measure the vertical size of your model,
> 2)Create multiple incremental slices in Z, based on the height in 1)
> 3) make a "glue" path at each level that will start in the center
> and proceed out to the outer contour (or vice-verca) without
> stopping (in most cases even with islands), using pocket-contour
> parallel.
>
> That would generate a 2 1/2 axis, g-code file that could be used to
> guide a RP head for glue, wax, or plastic deposition. The g-code
> instructions can include flow start and stop, pauses, speed and
> other commands needed to control the technologuy of the process.
>
> Vector can also be used to add 3D sprues so that a supporting matrix
> is created along with the part. (something you will need if the part
> does not have a flat base)
>
> Fred Smith - IMService
> http://www.cadcamcadcam.com/hobby